“Clock’s ticking”: Still no answer on Oldham councillor overpayments

It’s been more than a month since news emerged that councillors in Oldham have been overpaid since 2022, but as of yet no action has been taken by the Labour Council and their so-called Independent allies.

Oldham Liberal Democrat Leader councillor Howard Sykes MBE has blasted them for failing to act.

Sykes said: “It was early August (6/8/25) when the Deputy Leader of the Council, councillor Elaine Taylor, promised to provide a full list of councillors impacted and set out a plan to rectify the overpayments by 21 August.  There has been no news since.

“This is beyond disappointing.  What have they got to hide?”

Responding to requests made by the Liberal Democrats, Oldham Council confirmed that the information would be provided well before the end of August, but nothing has been forthcoming. 

Councillor Sykes said, “We seem to be the only ones who care about this at all.  There’s certainly been no urgency from anyone else.  People in Oldham Borough need to know that everything relating to councillors pay is being handled above board. These errors need to be put right in a clear and accountable manner.  The clock is ticking.  We are doing all we can as Liberal Democrats to get this matter sorted, perhaps others should do the same!”